Green bean casserole -- it's a family favorite on the holiday table. When I ask my family what they'd like to go with the turkey, this is one of a couple of dishes that "has" to be there. But it's really not all that healthy. It's high in sodium, fat and calories.
About 10 years ago, I searched for a healthier version of this favorite dish. I began making a substitute for the French fried onion rings that are added to the casserole. This is what I came across.
It's not a deep fried onion, but the taste is close enough that we all enjoy them when added to green bean casserole. Plus, I have all the ingredients in my kitchen -- bread crumbs, butter or margarine, and onion.
Health-wise, this is a winner. This homemade alternative has about 515 calories and 25 grams of fat. A 6 oz. can of French's French Fried Onions has 1080 calories and 72 grams of fat.
Cost-wise, it will save over $2 per casserole. The 6 oz can of French's French Fried Onions is advertised at $2.50 per can this week at a local store. My alternative costs about 30c to 40c.
Here's the recipe:
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1 cup chopped onion
9 tablespoons dry bread crumbs or 3/4 cup fresh bread crumbs
In a non-stick skillet, melt butter. Cook the onion in the butter until golden brown. Stir in crumbs and cook another minute. Use in green bean casserole recipe, using 2/3 of finished onions and crumbs with the green beans and mushroom soup, and 1/3 of the finished crumbs for topping the casserole.
